Content. Discontent.

I’m working on finishing Prayers from The Water’s Edge in the next couple weeks. I spent more time rereading, rethinking, and reworking this short prayer than any other.

This prayer is one that speaks to me because I feel I’m too discontent during times I should be content. Seriously…I’m healthy, have a roof over my head, am obviously not lacking food, I live in the greatest country ever, my boys are amazing, yet I find myself complaining and comparing–both can steal a lot of contentment. And I’m too content with the things I should be discontent about. I’m not perfect. If I made some small adjustments in my life then some amazing changes would happen. Or I see injustice or unfairness or pain. And sometimes I could do something about the injustice or unfairness or pain, but I act like the priest and Levite, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, and pass by the wounded traveler.

This prayer both comforts and challenges me. Comforting because I can can and should be more content with who I am (God doesn’t make junk) and what I have (I’m blessed). Challenging because I have plenty of room to grow and plenty of opportunities to serve.

Content. Discontent.

Dear God,

I seek contentment. Let me be grateful and happy with the life You give.
I seek discontentment too. Lead me to growth and compassion.

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Prayers from The Water's Edge is an engaging collection of prayers and writings for those who wish to dip their feet in the water of God's renewing grace and all who seek the depths of God's heart. All proceeds from the book go to The Water's Edge building fund.

On the Future of Methodism

I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out. -John Wesley